USDA’s Risk Management Agency announced a pilot insurance coverage option for hemp growers. Eligible growers must reside in select counties of 21 states, including Illinois. (FarmWeekNow)

The new year has arrived with a chance at fresh perspective and renewed energy for some key issues and projects in Springfield and Illinois. From possible changes in how we are taxed to developments that could shape the future of downtown Springfield, here’s what to watch for in 2020. (State Journal-Register

Gary Schnitkey, University of Illinois agricultural economist and farm management specialist, said at the Illinois Farm Economics Summit that prevent plant would have yielded higher returns than planting corn in many situations in Illinois. He presents six lessons from 2019 regarding plant or prevent plant. (Agri-News)

Illinois Farm Bureau Farm Legacy Seminars are planned for February to help farmers determine an estate plan. (The Pantagraph)

A Senate committee will take up the House-passed implementing bill for the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement this week amid a continuing impasse over whether the chamber will hold an impeachment trial for President Donald Trump. (Agri-Pulse)

The Trump administration has the highest number of unfunded construction projects at major hazardous waste sites of the last 15 years, according to data released by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over the holidays. (The Hill)